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Dog Who Failed Police Academy Becomes A Star In Taiwan Earthquake Response

April 11, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Taiwan.

In the wake of Taiwan's strongest earthquake in 25 years, an eight-year-old Labrador named Roger is winning hearts across the island nation.

Kaohsiung Fire Department

Roger was once a drug-sniffing dog but lost his job due to being overly friendly. His love for fun, food, and people often diverted his attention and hindered his responsiveness to his handler's instructions.

But his personality and intelligence made him a much better candidate to be a rescue dog.

The magnitude 7.4 quake struck last week, leaving devastation in its wake. Amidst the chaos, rescue dogs like Roger play a crucial role in locating stranded individuals, offering hope in the face of tragedy. Roger, specializing in "rubble pile search and rescue," proved his worth beyond measure during the recent crisis.

In a heartwarming moment captured on camera by the county fire department, Roger was seen mounting a boulder that had obstructed a hiking trail near Hualien's Taroko National Park. With his keen senses and rigorous training, Roger detected clues that led to the discovery of a victim trapped beneath the rubble.

Mayor Chen Chi-mai lauded Roger and his handler, Lee Hsin-hung, in a Facebook post titled "The Paw Paw Team's feat." According to Hsin-hung, Roger wasted no time in his mission, locating the victim just five minutes after setting off into the treacherous terrain.

As Taiwan continues to recover from the aftermath of the earthquake, Roger serves as a shining example of resilience and unwavering dedication. His journey from a retired drug-sniffing dog to a lifesaving hero inspires hope and reminds us that every dog truly does have its day.